The Mines Law Firm

Youth Offender Parole Hearings Under SB 394: A Guide by The Mines Law Firm

A Guide by The Mines Law Firm

SB 394: A Path to Second Chances for Youth Offenders in California Enacted to align with evolving legal standards on juvenile justice, California’s SB 394 opens up new opportunities for parole for individuals convicted as juveniles. This law reflects a growing recognition of the unique capacity for change and rehabilitation among young offenders.   Understanding […]

Re-Sentencing Under AB 2942: A New Era for California Inmates

Re-Sentencing Under AB 2942

AB 2942: Transforming Sentencing in California Effective January 1, 2019, AB 2942 offers a significant change in the California legal landscape, allowing for the possibility of re-sentencing for inmates serving sentences in the state’s correctional facilities. This law empowers local district attorneys to recommend re-sentencing for eligible offenders. How Does AB 2942 Work? District Attorney’s […]

The First Step Act: A Game Changer in Federal Sentencing

A Game Changer in Federal Sentencing

The First Step Act, signed into law in 2018, represents a major reform in the federal justice system. This landmark legislation aims to improve prison conditions and offers avenues for early release of federal inmates convicted in Federal District Courts. Key Provisions of the First Step Act Drug Crime Sentence Reduction: The Act makes the […]

Navigating the California State Writ of Habeas Corpus

Navigating the California State Writ of Habeas Corpus

The Power of Habeas Corpus in California In California, the Writ of Habeas Corpus stands as a beacon of hope for those challenging the legality of their detention. This powerful legal instrument provides a pathway for individuals detained by state authorities to question the grounds and conditions of their incarceration. What is a California State […]

California State Writ of Habeas Corpus: Your Path to Justice

California State Writ of Habeas Corpus

Understanding the Writ of Habeas Corpus in California The Writ of Habeas Corpus is a critical legal tool for challenging unlawful detention. Whether you’re detained by state or federal authorities, including the FBI, USMS, DEA, or ICE, this writ provides a way to question the legality of your incarceration. The Essence of a Writ of […]

SB 1437: Reducing a Sentence in California – A Guide by The Mines Law Firm

SB 1437 Reducing a Sentence in California

What is SB 1437? Senate Bill 1437 brings transformative changes to California’s felony murder rule, offering an opportunity for sentence reduction. This legislation, revising Penal Code Sections 188 and 189, significantly impacts how felony murder is prosecuted and how existing convictions under this statute can be reassessed. Old vs. New Felony Murder Rule Old Rule: […]

How to Get Your Conviction Vacated Under AB 256: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Get Your Conviction Vacated Under AB 256

Introduction to AB 256: The Racial Justice Act for All AB 256, a pivotal law in California’s justice system, marks a significant step forward in addressing racial biases in legal proceedings. This law, effective from January 1, 2023, allows for the overturning of convictions if race played a role in the conviction process. It broadens […]

What Changed with SB 483?

What Changed with SB 483

Senate Bill 483 (SB 483), also known as The Repeal Ineffective Sentencing Enhancements (RISE) Act, represents a significant change in California’s approach to sentencing in criminal cases. This bill, which came into effect on January 1, 2022, follows the earlier reforms initiated by SB 180 and SB 136 but goes a step further by applying […]

Financial Entitlements During Divorce Proceedings: Understanding Your Rights

Financial Entitlements During Divorce Proceedings: Understanding Your Rights

Family Law: Post-Divorce Filing Financial Entitlements When you file for divorce in California, understanding how your finances, including salary, compensation, lottery winnings, and contract earnings, will be treated during the period between filing and finalization is crucial. This guide outlines the potential entitlements of a soon-to-be ex-spouse during this interim period. I. Salary and Compensation […]

Maximizing Practical Experience: A Law Student’s Guide

A Law Student’s Guide

I. Internships and Clerkships 1. Seek Diverse Opportunities Explore internships in various legal settings such as law firms, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Each provides unique learning experiences. Example: An internship at a public defender’s office can offer insight into criminal law, while a corporate law firm provides exposure to business law. 2. Apply Early […]